June 19, 2023

Congresswoman Barbara Lee Releases Statement on the Passing of Gus Newport

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-12) released the following statement on the passing of former Mayor of Berkeley Gus Newport:

“I’m deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gus Newport – he was a dear friend and a courageous fighter for world peace. Gus was an inspiration, standing alongside civil rights giants like Malcolm X in the fight for the human rights of all African Americans. As Mayor of Berkeley, he not only fought for equity in the Black community, he was a trailblazing leader who was one of the first mayors in the country to participate in pride celebrations for the LGBTQ+ community.

“I have known Gus for many years as a brilliant and compassionate human being. After I was the only member of Congress to vote against authorizing the President to wage unlimited war after 9/11, Gus organized a rally and reminded me that I was not alone in the struggle. He has spent his life fighting for justice and liberation, and the world is a better place because of him. He is a true friend and an inspiration to us all. May he rest in peace and power.”